Places to See

Many of the old mines of Ceredigion areinaccessible and on private land.The following towns and villages offer either the opportunity to observe the remote locations of former mine sites (some of which still have visible remains) or have facilities to find out more about mine heritage. Some of the locations listed below have facilities for visitors for example shops or refreshments.

Visit theCeredigion Tourism websiteto find out more about Ceredigion and to order a free copy of the full colour "Ceredigion - Cardigan Bay" holiday brochure. The web-site and brochure contain full details on a selection of quality graded hotels, guest houses, self-catering units, holiday parks and attractions within Ceredigion, one of the best kept secrets of Wales.

Aberystwyth is the principle town of Ceredigion. Accessible by road or rail, it's many shops, bars, cafe's, restaurants and hotels make it an ideal place to stay and enjoy the sights of northern Ceredigion.

The remote hamlet and mines of Cwmsymlog boast one of the only accesible mine chimneys in the county. This historic site was once extremely rich in producing silver, which was then minted into coins at Aberystwyth castle.

The tranquil Rheidol valley (Cwm) has many surprises for the vistor, from the soft fluttering of butterfly wings to the drama of the steam railway. The Powergen and EON powerstation visitor Centres are worth a visit.

The spectacular Ystwyth Valley is a popular leisure route between Aberystwyth and Rhayader. At Cwmystwyth you will pass through the oldest recorded metal mine site in the UK - at some 4000 years old. The later workings are breathtaking in their expanse.

Lying 12 miles to the east of Aberystwyth, the Forestry Commission visitor Centre at Nant yr Arian offers something for all the family. Play areas for the youngsters, Red Kite feeding and photography opportunities for the more sedate, and mountain bike, equestrian and walking trails for the more energetic

Part of the Cwm Rheidol hydroelectric power scheme, the breathtaking Nant-y-Moch near Ponterwyd is one of Britain's youngest reservoirs, having been created in the early 60's. The construction of the dam flooded the valley, which included the small village of Nant-y-Moch and its local mining heritage.

The historic village of Pontrhydfengaid grew up around the nearby Cistercian Abbey at Strata Florida. The current village with its Georgian style houses is mainly due to the prosperity of the later lead mines.

A village on the main A487 trunk road between Aberystwyth and Machynlleth with a wealth of history. Famous for wool mills and mining history, the two pubs on the village green are good places to take refreshments whilst exploring the area.